Manchester United are interested in signing Benfica defender Antonio Silva – a player hailed by Manchester City coach Juanmo Lillo.
The summer transfer window hasn’t even been closed for a month and yet we’re already seeing rumours for 2024.
90Min reported just a couple of days ago that United used the international break to scout a couple of defenders.
Atalanta talent Giorgio Scalvini is one target whilst Benfica ace Antonio Silva was also watched.
United may expect Harry Maguire to finally move on in 2024, with the hunt on for a long-term centre back solution.
Who is Antonio Silva?
Silva spent time with a number of Portuguese clubs before joining Benfica back in 2016, aged just 12.
The 6ft 2in defender has made his way up through the ranks and is now one of Europe’s top young defenders.
The 19-year-old only turned out four times for Benfica’s B team before being fast-tracked into the first team, racking up 44 appearances last season.
Silva has already bagged four caps for Portugal and helped Benfica win the Primeira Liga title under Roger Schmidt last season.
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Silva impressed so much in Portugal that Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo were recommending him to United nearly a year ago, according to The Mirror.
United still appear to be weighing up Silva, but a move to sign him in 2024 may leave some at Manchester City feeling a little jealous.
Manchester City coach loves Manchester United target Silva
United may well move for Silva, but one key part of the Manchester City machine is a huge fan.
Pep Guardiola’s assistant Juanma Lillo offered huge praise for Silva during the World Cup in Qatar last year – even though he wasn’t even playing.
Lillo told The Athletic that Silva is simply ‘incredible’ and ‘absurd’, clearly seeing immense potential in the teenager.
“Portugal… the young centre-back from Benfica, Antonio Silva, is not even playing. Do you know how good this kid is? Incredible. He’s absurd,” said Lillo.
Lillo would surely love to see City sign Silva, but United will have some hope here.
City already have the likes of Ruben Dias, John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake as centre back options.
Signing Silva too would be complete overkill, and whilst that hasn’t stopped City in the past, United may well be able to sell a move to Old Trafford in 2024.